Discovering Taiwan: Tradition, Innovation, and Global Connections

Course Description

Summary

In this course, students will discover Taiwan through its history, culture, food, popular culture, technology, and everyday life. We will explore how Taiwan has changed over time, from its traditional roots to its modern society, including its development in technology, democracy, and
freedom. Students will also learn about Taiwan’s connections with China, the United States, and the rest of the world. Through short readings, videos, current events, and class discussions, students will explore Taiwan’s unique story while practicing their Chinese in a relaxed and
supportive learning environment.

The course includes two hours of weekly instruction and two hours of independent research. Students undertake individual projects on topics related to Taiwan and its connections with the world, and develop their research into written reports and oral presentations in Chinese,
submitting weekly progress updates with instructor feedback. Every 2–3 weeks, the class meets to share and discuss each student’s work.

In Week 7, students present their first project. In the second half of the course, they select a new topic and repeat the same research and presentation process. Designed as a small seminar for advanced learners (including students with six to seven terms of Chinese and native speakers), the course emphasizes advanced reading, writing, and independent research in Chinese.

Please note: this is a two-part course and requires two hours of in-class learning and two hours of independent research & discussion.